LETTERS: AN OVERVIEW OF SIN, MORALITY, LAW

To the editor:

For the past several months we have heard a great deal of talk concerning the presidency, sin, morality and law. Perhaps we need to stop for a moment and consider these subjects.

Sin is a religious term defined by the Bible. Sin is the breaking of certain laws established by the author of the Bible, God. (John 3:4)

Law is a set of rules and regulations established by the community or state for the orderly conduct of its citizens and business.

Morality is a set of standards, established by individuals or groups of individuals, which define the acceptable actions of individuals. Morality standards often change over time.

What is morally acceptable in one community is not necessarily acceptable in a different community. Sexual intercourse outside of marriage (including homosexuality) is frowned upon in some areas but perfectly acceptable in many other communities -- even nations. Drinking alcohol is considered improper by some, acceptable -- with limits or without limits -- by others.

Seldom are nations as a whole guided by a universally accepted standard of morality. Individuals, not states, establish moral standards. Individual moral standards dictate our personal actions. Should we gamble, drink, attend movies, dance? What about our sexual practices, race relations, religious preference? Individuals will usually live by their own standards whether or not others approve.

The community, on the other hand, establishes laws, generally by representatives of the populace. These laws may or may not reflect the moral standards of the community. Laws governing abortion will appeal to some and be rejected by others. Law may or may not reflect the Ten Commandments. Lying is defined and condemned by the Bible. The civil law does not always condemn lying, but the law does condemn lying under oath. We may not like taxes but understand the need for funds to build roads, maintain government and conduct business with other nations. Laws are meant to be obeyed by individuals because they define the needs and wishes of the majority. Not everyone obeys these laws, but the majority do because they believe such laws are good.

Religious law is defined in the Bible. In its basic intent, it is defined by "Do unto others as you would they do unto you." Another way of saying it is: "Love your neighbors as yourself." Obviously, this is not sexual love, nor is it even affection as we think of it. God is talking of a love that looks out for the needs and care of others.

The president of the United States is bound by the law of the land. His job description does not define his religion nor his moral standards. The population of the United States is free to elect into office anyone the majority chooses. It is the responsibility of the voters to know whom they are electing into office. If the officeholder's actions, religion or moral standards upset us, what can we do? We have several choices:

1. If a law has been broken by an elected official, we can demand that the law be followed and the individual punished according to that law.

2. We can condemn openly the individual for his low moral standards, publicly shame him and demand his removal by procedures established by the law of the land.

3. We can pray that the individual will change his ways, begin obeying the laws of the land and live by a moral standard that will be a good example for our nation, our youth and the world.

Perhaps some day we may need to carry out the first two choices. But as Christians we should start with No. 3.

A. DOCKEN

Jackson